Papa'S Italian Spaghetti
A hearty and flavorful Italian spaghetti sauce with sausage, garlic, and herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving authentic Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the Italian sausage, finely chopped garlic, and chopped onion in margarine.
- Add the tomato sauce, blended tomatoes, spaghetti sauce mix, Italian seasoning, and oregano to the browned mixture.
- Simmer the sauce for two hours to develop rich flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or add a splash of red wine during simmering. If you prefer a leaner dish, substitute turkey sausage for the Italian sausage. Also, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. This dish is versatile and can be customized easily, much like other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccini. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. For a twist, try it with the Turkey Fettuccini Marinara recipe for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the spaghetti sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simmer on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain consistency. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papa'S Italian Spaghetti contains roughly 995 calories, with 9g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (112% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (86% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 931mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 12-15 medium tomatoes, peeled and blended. Keep in mind that the sauce may require longer to cook down and develop flavors, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while browning the sausage. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild for an instant kick. Taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
What can I serve with this spaghetti sauce?
This sauce pairs well with a variety of sides. Garlic bread and a simple Caesar salad are classic choices. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of Sausage, Potatoes And Peppers for a heartier meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).